The Duke of Lancaster Appreciation Society (Dolas), which has in excess of 1,000 members, wants to transform the abandoned cruise liner – beached at Llanerch-y-Mor, near Mostyn – into a tourist attraction and nautical school.

Ashley Gardner, Dolas’s public relations officer and the creator of the petition, says: “The Duke of Lancaster is the last passenger-only steam turbine ship left in existence. She is listed on the Historic Ships Register.

“When she was open as the Funship she became the third most popular tourist attraction in Wales, creating many jobs.

“She could do this again, regenerating the area, bringing so many benefits to the local and surrounding area.”

Online supporter Mark R posted: “Could be a great tourist destination and create jobs and a lot of economy to the area, surely there is lottery funds, grants, or something can be done to make use of this current eyesore. It’s an embarrassment to the local council to allow this ship to stay in the current state.”

Alex E said: “It’s an important part of Britain’s maritime history and could bring great amounts of revenue into the community.”

Vicki C added: “This needs to be renovated and loved again. It’s such a landmark and talking point.”

Owner of the ship John Rowley had spent the last 30 years trying to get a project off the ground to restore it, but claimed legal battles, planning complications and requirements laid out by the council during that time frustrated his plans.

Mr Rowley, who now lives in Romania, has always remained keen to see something done with the Duke of Lancaster and in 2012 allowed several street artists to leave their stamp on the ship.

To view the petition, visit you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save-the-duke-of-lancaster.